Tag Archives: health

I Thought It Was a Little Mistake

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I forgot to tell the doctor that my wife was low on two of her medications. No big deal. We went back today, and he wrote the prescriptions for them. We then headed to Walgreens. As I was entering the store, I saw a well-displayed sign: their pharmacy was closed.

There ought to be a linguistic term for this peculiar incongruity—something akin to an oxymoron, but manifested through actions rather than language. Consider the irony: a pharmacy store chain store without a pharmacy seems as absurd as a McDonald’s with no burger inventory. The dissonance is palpable, a logical disconnect between expectation and reality.

I glanced down at my watch, a sudden urgency washing over me. While numerous Walgreens dotted the local landscape, only one remained open around the clock. Given her critical medication shortage, I knew I couldn’t risk waiting. The catch? This particular pharmacy was located in Memphis—a city I habitually steered clear of—yet tonight, it seemed to be our sole lifeline.

We embarked on our journey, my apprehension stemming not just from navigating Whitehaven, the Memphis neighborhood notorious for its frequent media appearances, but also from the anticipation of a prolonged wait at the sole open pharmacy—a scenario all too familiar from past experiences.

Navigating the congested highway, I felt the weight of my earlier error intensifying with each passing moment. The surrounding vehicles seemed poised to exploit my vulnerability, their drivers laser-focused on potential opportunities to alter my trajectory. In this unforgiving urban landscape, lane discipline had become a forgotten art, with each motorist operating as if turn signals and careful observation were mere suggestions rather than essential safety protocols.

My trip to the store was uneventful, a fact for which I am grateful. The wait time passed quickly, and during our browsing, one detail stood out dramatically: the heightened security measures. Compared to my usual Walgreens, this store seemed to take precautions more seriously, with numerous items securely locked away. Despite being less than 10 miles from the store I usually visit and crossing a state line, the difference in security protocols were striking, suggesting they might experience more significant theft challenges than my familiar shopping environment.

On the positive side, the folks at the store seemed friendlier and more professional than where I usually visit. Didn’t expect that.

Mixed Emotions

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My contemplation of this matter has led me to a profound ethical crossroads. The consumption of meat is not merely a dietary choice, but a complex moral transaction where sentient creatures die to sustain human existence. Each hamburger and hotdog represents more than a meal—it embodies a silent, often overlooked narrative of animal mortality that we too readily dismiss without reflection.

In an ideal world, I long for a way to enjoy the rich, savory flavor of steak without the necessity of an animal’s life being sacrificed. Our contemporary lifestyle has distanced us from the direct process of obtaining meat, with industrialized food systems handling every stage from raising to slaughtering livestock. We are far removed from the primal act of hunting and preparing our own food, instead receiving neatly packaged proteins that often end up discarded, rendering the animal’s ultimate sacrifice meaningless. This disconnection raises profound questions about our relationship with food, consumption, and the ethical implications of our dietary choices.

For sure, even those of us who do eat meat, we should endeavor to make sure that not one ounce of meat be wasted. However, when we live in a land of plenty, it’s just so easy for us to kill a hundred animals when we only need eighty.

Throughout biblical history, the consumption of meat is not merely permissible but divinely sanctioned. The Passover narrative demonstrates God’s explicit instructions regarding both the selection and preparation of meat. Moreover, Jesus Christ himself participated in meat consumption and even prepared fish for his disciples, exemplifying the acceptability of this dietary practice. Given these scriptural precedents, it would be totally wrong to challenge or critique such established traditions of sustenance.

Every morsel of meat deserves respect, and we must strive to minimize waste in our culinary practices. Despite my own past shortcomings in this regard, I am committed to improving and encouraging mindful consumption.

Even more, we should all be mindful to take a moment or two to tell God how grateful we are for the meat and the vegetables as well. While we’re at it, we should also be thankful for our shelter and clothing too. It’s all so easy to forget the things provided to us by God.

In the midst of life’s complexities, we often neglect God’s most profound gift: salvation. The Passover lamb, sacrificed as a symbolic precursor to Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice, reveals a depth of love that transcends human comprehension. While the death of an animal carries weight, Christ’s voluntary surrender of life for humanity’s redemption is infinitely more profound. Tragically, many remain unaware or indifferent to this transformative act of divine grace, overlooking the most significant offering of love in human history.

Yes, I feel bad that animals must die for my life. But how much more, how bad I feel to know that that the creator of all gave up his life, that I might have eternal life. So very much, I wish that was not a requirement for salvation. However, I don’t believe he would have laid his life down for me if their was another way.

When we get to heaven, as near as I can tell, we won’t eat meat; only fruits and vegetables. Animals won’t need to die to provide life for me.

Right now, yes, I eat meat. However, one day, I won’t. I’ll have no need or desire for it.

Daily writing prompt
What are your feelings about eating meat?
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Humana; Just Plain Wasteful

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Food waste is a persistent concern that weighs heavily on my conscience. Today, I discovered a thawed frozen meal in my car, a frustrating reminder of my unintentional negligence. The irony of an unfrozen “frozen” dinner is not lost on me, and the situation feels both perplexing and disheartening.

Frustrated, I reluctantly discarded the forgotten item. Had I discovered it earlier, I could have salvaged and consumed it. The previous night’s freezing temperatures suggested it might still be edible. I distinctly remembered seeing it fall from the grocery bag and mentally noted to rescue it, but somehow failed to follow through.

In a moment of self-reflection, I acknowledged my forgetfulness and offered a sincere apology to God for being wasteful. The irony of relying on mental notes struck me—they’re as desirable as a thawed microwave meal that once held promise. My frustration simmered beneath the surface, a reminder of my own fallibility.

After discarding the spoiled frozen meal, I retrieved the mail. Amidst the stack of unsolicited papers, a Humana insurance brochure caught my eye. I recalled the challenging period when my wife was 63, and our monthly health insurance premium approached $1,000 due to Obama Care.

Throughout the year, I diligently paid Humana twelve full insurance premiums, yet not a single claim was filed. These payments were mandated by law, not a voluntary choice. When the year concluded, I found myself searching for alternative insurance coverage after Humana abruptly terminated my policy. The experience left me frustrated and feeling cheated. I vividly recall paying ten thousand dollars for essentially nothing, receiving only a dismissive farewell from the company.

Dismissing the Humana correspondence, I swiftly discarded the unnecessary paper, recognizing its irrelevance and considering both the document and its postage a futile expenditure of resources.

My silence feels like a futile resistance against their misguided persistence. Despite knowing they won’t listen, their relentless pursuit seems tragically wasteful—consuming resources and paper in a fruitless attempt to reach me. Their determination remains blind to the environmental cost of their unheeded communications.

Somehow, I suspect I am not the only one with feelings towards Humana. Perhaps we are losing trees by the thousands in similar efforts to reach similar former customers. Do you think the tree huggers care? I sincerely doubt it. They have no hope to gain any political gain from it.

The Mysteries of Sleep

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After decades of living, I’ve gained profound insights into the art of slumber. Throughout my nearly eight decades of life, I’ve dedicated approximately 26 years to the restorative realm of sleep, transforming my experience into a nuanced understanding of this essential human function.

In my earlier years, the necessity of sleep often felt like an unwelcome interruption, consuming precious hours that could have been dedicated to more pressing matters and personal pursuits.

Shelter is a fundamental human need, often overlooked by those who have never experienced its absence. A secure, comfortable sleeping environment—warm, dry, and protected from external threats—is essential for physical and mental well-being. Many individuals, particularly in developed countries, rarely contemplate the luxury of having a reliable place to rest, especially during their formative years when parental support provides a safety net.

My Marine Corps experience revealed the adaptability of human endurance, particularly in sleep. While a plush lawn offered comfort, I learned to embrace challenging terrains, readily settling onto hard, sun-baked ground when necessary. On cold, damp evenings, a strategically positioned poncho transformed a simple foxhole into a surprisingly adequate shelter, demonstrating that resilience often trumps physical convenience.

Aging has taught me that sleep is a remarkable healer, revealing unexpected insights into its restorative power. One of the most intriguing discoveries is its ability to alleviate pain. While pharmaceutical interventions like Tylenol 3 offer relief, nothing compares to the profound comfort of deep slumber. During my wisdom teeth extraction recovery, I found solace in drifting off to sleep, experiencing a blissful respite from discomfort. The moment I awoke, however, the reality of the procedure returned, reminding me of the temporary nature of sleep’s analgesic embrace.

Sleep is a transformative process that transcends physical restoration, delving deep into mental and emotional healing. Its restorative qualities offer a sanctuary for the mind, providing relief from psychological challenges and emotional burdens. However, one must be cautious not to use sleep as an escape, potentially missing out on life’s vibrant experiences and opportunities for personal growth.

As I contemplate the nature of existence in Heaven, I find myself pondering the necessity of sleep. Various theological discussions suggest that rest might be unnecessary in an eternal realm of continuous light. The prospect of being free from physical limitations is particularly enticing. My chronic ankle pain and persistent limp will vanish, transforming the celestial experience into an unimaginable relief. The idea of perpetual wakefulness resonates with childhood fantasies of boundless energy and endless exploration. In this divine landscape, the constraints of mortal fatigue will dissolve, replaced by a state of pure, uninterrupted consciousness and joy.

Some individuals who choose to deny Christ might find themselves longing for respite from the intense suffering of eternal separation, wishing for even momentary unconsciousness to escape the profound consequences of their spiritual choices.

A Little Good, Maybe, Hopefully

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One of my first posts was a true story about my wife and her very persistent rash. She had visited multiple doctors, and still the rash persisted. Finally, in an act of frustration, we changed from Tide laundry detergent.

The rash vanished instantly, prompting me to share my experience not out of frustration, but to help others facing similar challenges. My journey revealed potential issues with certain personal care products, including a widely used bath soap that I now carefully avoid. By speaking out, I hope to provide valuable insights and support to those seeking solutions to unexpected skin reactions.

Furthermore, this might be a call to be careful to completely rinse the soap, regardless of the brand or type.

Recently, after publishing my blog post about laundry detergents for sensitive skin, I was intrigued to see Tide launch a new product line targeting this specific market. While I can’t definitively say my writing influenced their decision, I can’t help but wonder if my message resonated with the company. Perhaps my small contribution has helped raise awareness about the needs of those with sensitive skin.

How-some-ever, this is far from the last of notes that make me wonder if I’ve done a little good. I have seen some changes that make me suspicious that I might have.

On the other hand, maybe not. Maybe I am just being a little egotistical. I must say, I do believe that more little efforts have had some effect. When someone takes the time and effort to tell me there is no God, it tells me he might not be the only one to consider my argument.

Embracing our collective mission, I find value in every contribution, regardless of individual outcomes. Being part of this team is a profound privilege, even if my role seems minor. My true success may lie in supporting a fellow team member’s efforts to guide someone towards spiritual transformation, highlighting the power of collaborative purpose.

The ripple effect of a single conversion can be profound, potentially inspiring countless others to embrace faith. Ultimately, the significance lies not in my personal success, but in guiding individuals toward a transformative spiritual choice that impacts their eternal destiny and deepens their connection with Christ.

Every individual’s salvation ripples through humanity, subtly or profoundly transforming the collective human experience. When one life is rescued, redirected, or redeemed, the potential for positive change expands exponentially, creating unseen yet meaningful impact on our shared global landscape.

This is a reality so profound, it transcends even the most resolute skepticism.

Everything Falls

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As I age, the constant pull of gravity seems to challenge me more intensely. Standing up has become increasingly difficult, particularly after sitting on the ground. My balance isn’t what it used to be, and I find myself stumbling or losing my footing more frequently than before. These physical changes are a stark reminder of the passage of time and the subtle ways our bodies transform with age.

Lately, I’ve noticed a peculiar phenomenon: whenever I place an object on a completely level surface, it remains stationary momentarily, only to inexplicably tumble to the ground the moment I look away. This occurrence has become increasingly frequent, leaving me to wonder if gravity’s mysterious force is intensifying. While I can’t definitively explain this curious pattern, the repeated incidents have certainly piqued my curiosity.

Gravity seems to conspire against my medication routine, transforming simple pill-taking into a frustrating game of chance. Each tiny tablet appears magnetically drawn to the floor, slipping through my fingers with an uncanny precision. Tonight, I briefly celebrated a small victory when I snatched one pill in mid-descent, only to watch helplessly as two more evaded my grasp, continuing their rebellious tumble toward the ground.

As I attempt to put my medications in my mouth, occasionally a pill slips and clatters to the floor. When this happens, I’m left in a precarious situation, unsure which specific medication has fallen. The stakes are high, especially with critical prescriptions like my blood pressure medication. Missing a dose could potentially lead to serious health risks, including the threat of a stroke. Determined to maintain my health, I meticulously search the floor, carefully crawling and scanning until I locate the dropped pill, ensuring I don’t compromise my medical regimen.

Then, of course, I’m back to that other problem of gravity: standing.

A Matter of Priorities

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Each professional views their role with unique significance, reflecting the importance of their specific contribution to society. The street painter sees his work as crucial for guiding traffic and maintaining order on roadways. For the bus driver, punctuality represents the core of their professional responsibility, ensuring reliable transportation for countless commuters. Similarly, lawyers perceive their profession as fundamental to societal structure, believing that without legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms, civilization would descend into chaos. These perspectives highlight how every occupation, regardless of its perceived status, plays a vital role in maintaining the intricate balance of community and social functionality.

In the medical profession, nurses and doctors often engage in a subtle competition to highlight their respective contributions to healthcare. Nurses passionately advocate for the critical role they play in patient care, emphasizing their direct and compassionate interactions with patients. Meanwhile, physicians counter with a comprehensive list of reasons why their medical expertise and decision-making skills are paramount to patient treatment and overall healthcare outcomes. This ongoing dialogue reflects the complex and interconnected nature of healthcare professionals, each bringing unique and essential skills to the medical field.

In the realm of essential professions, few trades are as critical as plumbing and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services. When water lines rupture or sewer systems become obstructed, plumbers emerge as unsung heroes, swiftly resolving potentially catastrophic household emergencies. However, during the scorching summer months, HVAC technicians become absolute lifelines, particularly in the mid-southern region of the United States. The extreme heat is not merely a source of discomfort but a genuine health hazard, with potentially fatal consequences for vulnerable populations. These skilled professionals ensure that residential and commercial spaces remain cool and safe, protecting individuals from the potentially life-threatening risks associated with prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Their work transcends mere comfort, representing a critical public health service that safeguards communities during the most challenging seasonal conditions.

If may add one more little thing. Can you imagine all those lawyers holding court in 100° + rooms… As they did years ago.

Missed my Chance at a Million

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I’ve developed an innovative personal hygiene product called the Sneeze Pad, a groundbreaking solution designed to enhance public health and personal safety. The concept features an elegantly simple design that can be easily manufactured, with potential for aesthetic refinement and customization. This practical invention addresses the growing need for immediate sneeze containment and could revolutionize personal protective equipment.

A compact, ergonomic protective shield designed for personal hygiene during respiratory events. Measuring approximately 3 by 4 inches, this innovative device features adjustable wrist straps for secure forearm attachment. The surface is covered with a specialized, adhesive-backed material treated with advanced antimicrobial agents. When a user experiences a sneeze or cough, they can direct respiratory droplets onto the pad, where the chemically treated fabric immediately captures and neutralizes potential pathogens, preventing their spread and maintaining a hygienic environment.

In the aftermath of the global health crisis, my innovative solution remains unrecognized. Despite its potential to save countless lives, the moment has passed. While pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and medical facilities capitalized on the pandemic’s urgency, my breakthrough idea sits unrealized. The opportunity for recognition and potential financial success has slipped away, leaving me with a sense of missed potential and unfulfilled promise.

On the other hand, the pharmaceutical companies are still making their fortunes off me. Since I took the vaccine, I’ve had at least three blood clots. So now I take this medication that makes my nose bleed. I do put up with the nose bleeds so I don’t have any more blood clots. Oh, and by the way, I pay almost a hundred dollars a month, this after Medicare and auxiliary insurance.

It appeared that nearly everyone prospered during the pandemic, except for those like myself who continued to struggle with lingering health complications. While some found opportunity and resilience, I couldn’t ignore the profound loss experienced by those who succumbed to the virus and the families left behind to grieve.

Prepare Yourself for the Attack

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It is on the way, you know!

On a routine Friday, I stopped by my doctor’s office for a standard checkup. While discussing general health, I casually remarked about the impending pollen season’s potential severity. His knowing glance and subtle nod confirmed my suspicion before he even spoke,

Based on the expert’s assessment, I’ll need to maintain a robust inventory of antihistamines and related medications. Although unverified, a top local allergist confidently declared me the most allergic individual in the Mid-south region, necessitating constant preparedness for potential allergic reactions.

As the seasons change, I’ve developed a strategic approach to combat the relentless onslaught of allergies that plague my body during spring and fall. Drawing from years of personal experience, I’ve crafted effective methods to defend against these microscopic invaders that threaten my well-being.

Seeking shelter from seasonal allergies often means staying indoors with high-quality air filtration. However, daily life inevitably requires venturing outside. Protective masks can offer some relief, though finding an effective solution remains challenging. During peak pollen periods, I rely on frequent saline nasal rinses, which provide both physical and psychological comfort, helping me manage allergy symptoms and maintain a sense of control.

Another method almost as good is to move to a high-rise. As far as I’m concerned, as they say the sky’s the limit. The wind spreads the stuff so I suspect you just might find it on the tenth or even fifteenth floor. Unfortunately, as I referred to before, you will be faced with the need to venture into lower elevations from time to time.

Many experts agree that desert climates can offer relief for allergy sufferers. However, these environments present significant challenges. The extreme heat can be unbearably oppressive, making daily life uncomfortable for humans and wildlife alike. Ironically, residents often introduce non-native vegetation like grass and ornamental bushes, which reintroduce pollen sources and potentially counteract the region’s natural allergy-friendly conditions. Cities like Los Angeles demonstrate this phenomenon, where meticulously maintained lawns transform the natural landscape and potentially trigger allergic reactions. Despite the initial promise of an allergen-free environment, careful consideration of landscaping choices is crucial for those seeking genuine relief.

For individuals with the financial means, spending extended periods at sea offers an effective strategy to escape seasonal allergies. Some enthusiasts even embrace a nomadic cruise lifestyle, seamlessly transitioning from one voyage to another. While the exact expenses remain uncertain, cruising provides a unique opportunity to distance oneself from pollen-laden environments. Travelers should note that most cruise ships typically dock at ports two or three times daily, which may briefly interrupt the allergen-free experience.

Constantly traversing the seas to escape seasonal allergies offers an unexpected social advantage: the opportunity to connect with a diverse array of fellow travelers. Most cruise companions prove to be welcoming and engaging, transforming the journey into a vibrant social experience beyond mere pollen avoidance.

Well there is one more big, big advantage. You never need to do dishes.

Ivermectin Trial Please

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Now that things have settled a little and Old Joe and his minions are out of office, let’s conduct rigorous, independent clinical trials to evaluate Invective’s potential effectiveness against China virus. A series of well-designed, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies could provide definitive scientific evidence about the drug’s efficacy, helping medical professionals make informed treatment decisions.

One thing is certain. We need to keep the FDA and all its associates far away from those conducting the tests and the test reports. There are at least three reasons for this, if not more. First and foremost, they have a reputation to defend. They would never want the world to know that they purposely let millions die because of their hard-headed self-interested decisions.

Secondly, the pharmaceutical industry faces potential economic challenges if alternative treatments prove effective, as such discoveries could significantly impact existing vaccine development and distribution strategies, potentially disrupting established financial models.

Finally, the goal is to obtain accurate information from the test. The FDA has had a long history of making errors. Accuracy is not exactly their strong suit.

If Ivermectin works, it might mean an end to the COVID-19 virus, given that Ivermectin is a very inexpensive drug. It might do a better job of eliminating the virus than the highly expensive vaccine.

Then, of course, all those big drug companies would have a bunch of vaccines, wondering what to do with them. Then too, they would lose all the money they have been getting from Uncle Sam for years of future research.

Fauci certainly would not like to see a good positive test for Ivermectin. He just might need to build himself a good fallout shelter at the South Pole to feel safe. Actually, he and his cohorts might want to build a small city down there.

Just as a side note, the “Write Assist” provided by my Kindle would not let me call it China virus. It also rewrote the text to make Fauci and his friends looks, well, not as bad. I guess, if that artificial intelligence were on Fauci’s jury, we’d never get a conviction, would we?